April 2016 Issue 94

desthe magazine for defence equipment and support

Sea King: Farewell to an Icon A4 optDesider15.03.pdf 1 15/03/2016 12:03

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FOREWORD By Tony Douglas, CEO © Crown Copyright | Dan Rosenbaum

ust three months ago I stood in front of an already dedicated workforce and asked them to ‘get better at desider getting better’. I can see this mantra has been taken on Jboard. www.gov.uk/government/publications/desider-2015 It’s been another busy month with DE&S project teams continuing to focus on delivering the best possible equipment to the Armed Forces. Editor: We have announced a further £472 million for the Royal Tom Morris - 9352 37888 or 0117 9137888 Navy’s Type 26 Global Combat Ship programme which will [email protected] replace the Type 23 frigate as the workhorse of the fleet. Reporters: Not only does this move us ever closer to delivering the Laura Martin Plaza, Hazel Stanley, Tom Knight and 21st Century warship, it underlines DE&S’ commitment to Hannah Carolin engage the wider supply chain, with suppliers from across the Photography and Design: UK set to benefit. Andrew Linnett, David Tucker, Ed Low, Mark Hawke I was proud to see the result of a disused forklift truck and Paul Griffin factory in Merthyr Tydfil being transformed into a specialist engineering hub for Ajax - all thanks to a £390 million contract Distribution Manager: awarded by DE&S to General Dynamics UK. Dick Naughton - 9352 34342 or 0117 9134342 This wonderful achievement is not only another significant DES SEC-CorpOC-BusMgr1a mod.uk @ step towards delivering the British Army’s next generation of armoured vehicles but creates 250 new, highly skilled jobs. Advertising: As we look forward to welcoming Ajax in the coming Richard Stillman – Ten Alps Media, 1 New Oxford years we say goodbye to Sea King which has spent 47 years Street, High Holborn, London SC1A 1NU delivering Royal Navy and RAF operations. Tel: +44 (0)20 7657 1837 DE&S are proud to have supported the iconic aircraft Fax: +44 (0)20 7379 7155 through the Sea King Project Team and I am pleased that [email protected] many past and present employees were able to attend a ceremony in Yeovil to bid it farewell. Transformation continues at pace as DE&S looks to become Printing: an organisation that sets the benchmark for acquisition. This month Tim Sheldon – appointed to new Corporate Head of Project Controls – makes some wonderful analogies explaining how his function will help DE&S achieve this. desider is distributed free to DE&S employees and the We must also bid a very fond farewell to Sir Simon Bollom equipment capability organisations. Copies may be who retires from DE&S next month. Simon spent more than 35 sent to readers outside MOD, including in the defence years in the RAF and more than a decade with DE&S, holding industries and is published on the world wide web via the position of Chief of Materiel (Air), since October 2012. GOV.UK. While the editor takes care to ensure all material During that time he achieved an extraordinary amount produced is accurate, no liability can be accepted for including bringing Voyager and A400M into service and taking errors or omissions. Views expressed in desider, and the first delivery of F35s. products and services advertised, are not necessarily endorsed by DE&S or the MOD. All editorial submissions I think I can speak for everybody when I offer sincere thanks must be cleared by the relevant MOD authorities with for all his hard work and wish him all the best for the future. content for advertorials to be cleared by the relevant MOD On a final note please take a couple of minutes to complete project team before publication. the Desider survey you will find in the magazine and online this month. Your opinions can help make Desider even better. © Crown Copyright

This magazine is produced on Cocoon Silk 90gsm which contains 50 per cent recycled and de-inked pulp from post consumer waste and Forest Stewardship Council certified material from well-managed forests.

desider April 2016 3 HAVE YOUR SAY: FILL IN THE DESIDER READERSHIP SURVEY IN THIS ISSUE OR ONLINE www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Desider

SENIOR LEADER’S COMMENT

06 Adrian Baguley, Director Air Support, on the motivation of delivering to the Armed Forces, the impact of SDSR 2015, and why the unexpected always happens on a Friday NEWS

08 Flying high: £372 million committed for continued in-service support of world- class Hawk fast jet

10 Chocks away: CoM Air Sir Simon Bollom prepares for retirement. He talks career highlights and Caribbean holidays

12 Red Letter Day: Astute Class submarine HMS Artful officially becomes a commissioned warship 10 14 Ajax update: Disused forklift truck factory in Wales transformed into specialist engineering hub

16 Type 26: A further £472 million is committed to the Royal Navy’s Global Combat Ship programme

20 Red tape eradicator: New policy unveiled for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

27 First compartments of HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier handed over to her crew ahead of schedule

29 Successor boost: A further £642 million of investment for the cutting edge submarine programme is announced

FEATURES

17 Astute – Desider talks to the team behind one of DE&S’s most complex projects

24 Sea King – The majority of the Sea King fleet went out of service at the end of March. DE&S says goodbye to 14 the iconic aircraft

4 desider April 2016 HAVE YOUR SAY: FILL IN THE DESIDER READERSHIP SURVEY IN THIS ISSUE OR ONLINE www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Desider

REGULARS

30 First person - Tim Sheldon, Corporate Head of Project Controls, discusses the key aspects of this new function and how football can help explain the advantages of Transformation

32 Jobs - Desider’s latest recruitment pages

36 60 Second spotlight – DE&S’ Lana Tavara talks about her love of Tudor History, volunteering for the national 2016 Trust, and serving in the Falklands

37 – DE&S People Fitness fanatic: DE&S APRIL logistics officer Jayne Mitchell pushed her body to breaking limit taking on the ultimate physical challenge

39 DE&S People – Abbey Wood celebrates International Women’s Day 17

24 Inside

desider April 2016 5 SENIOR LEADER COMMENT

Adrian Baguley, Director Air Support, talks to Desider about recent achievements in the operating centre, the impact of SDSR 2015, and his pride in what he and his team have achieved Picture: Andrew Linnett

As an organisation we have a very “strong sense of common purpose: to deliver capability to our Armed Forces for the national security of our country Adrian Baguley ”

ince returning to DE&S in November Mobility fleets, Airborne intelligence and the US Government on the programme are 2005 I’ve held a number of senior surveillance fleets and a huge spectrum of progressing well and we are looking at the Spositions, including four proud aircraft support equipment ranging from delivery of the first aircraft. years as Director Helicopters and most aircrew clothing and survival aids to synthetic We are also working towards main gate recently Director Air Support. Air Support training simulators. Every day brings different, for our Mode 5 IFF programme that will encompasses some 900 people and has an and often unexpected, challenges and it is equip over 400 platforms across air, sea and annual spend of around £1.5 billion - which this range of issues that makes the job so land with the new radio transponders that most people forget is equivalent to the fascinating and certainly keeps us busy - tell other platforms that you are a friendly turnover of a FTSE 100 company. Fridays always seem to be the day when the aircraft - essential to enable major collation As an organisation we have a very unexpected happens! operations. strong sense of common purpose: to A great achievement for us in September Smaller, but equally important current deliver capability to our Armed Forces for last year was the delivery of our seventh projects, include new flying clothing and life the national security of our country. It is A400M aircraft, achieving the UK in-service preservers for aircrew and new personal this sense of purpose that inspires us all date for the multi-national programme. locator beacons to enable search and rescue to succeed in what we do and certainly Since then our fleet has been on extended assets to locate aircrew in the event of an motivates me to ensure we meet our world-wide tasks, and the next challenge is accident. promises. delivering a further 15 aircraft and releasing I have immense pride for what we do. Our For me, the combination of financial, the full capabilities of this amazing new air people really want to achieve, and do achieve business, organisational, leadership and transport aircraft. Last year we also delivered fantastic things. engineering responsibilities as an Operating our second Rivet Joint aircraft in the Centre Director in DE&S provides genuinely Airseeker programme, enabling us to sustain unique challenges. In private businesses continuous intelligence gathering operations. these roles would be separate. This is This coming year will arguably be even a tremendous test of a broad range of busier for Air Support, following the release of professional skills and it is a great honour the 2015 SDSR. Nearly every fleet has seen and privilege to lead the Operating Centre. enhancements or life extensions, and we are Within Air Support, we have three main set to buy a whole new fleet of P-8 Poseidon See page 10 for a farewell interview with areas of responsibility: we support the Air maritime patrol aircraft. Negotiations with Air Marshal Sir Simaon Bollom ↘

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Untitled-1 1 17/03/2016 09:23 NEWS

Hawk contracts award The RAF’s latest jet trainer, the Hawk TMk2, during a flight over North Wales ”

ir Vice Marshal Sue Gray, Director services to the Royal Navy and Royal Air Combat Air at DE&S, has hailed Force’s Hawk aircraft at bases around the A the announcement of new country. contracts to support Hawk fast jets. These new contracts Minister for Defence Procurement Philip The Ministry of Defence has committed Dunne added: “The Hawk is a world-class £372 million across four contracts for to support our fleet of training aircraft for our future fast jet the continued in-service support of the aircrew. Pilots currently flying Typhoons world-class training fast jet, securing Hawk fast jets set the and Tornados with such precision targeting around 700 UK jobs until 2020. Daesh in Iraq and Syria to keep Britain safe The fleet of Hawk TMk1 and TMk2 support service bar first learnt their skills in the Hawk. It will aircraft are used by the UK Armed Forces higher than ever before also be used to train the pilots that will fly for military flying training prior to our new F-35s, some of the most advanced conversion onto frontline fast jet aircraft, Air Vice Marshal Sue Gray, aircraft in the world. such as Typhoon or the future F35 DE&S Director Combat Air “The contracts to support these vital Lightning II, and for a variety of other training aircraft are a boost to British Royal Navy and Royal Air Force training industry, sustaining hundreds of jobs requirements. across the UK – all made possible by They are also the aircraft of choice by our growing Defence budget and our the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, £178 billion investment in buying and and the Red Arrows - one of the world’s ” maintaining the best possible kit for our premier aerobatic display teams. the provision of spares, while delivering Armed Forces.” Air Vice Marshal Gray said: “These new cost savings and providing a high level A £79 million contract has also been placed contracts to support our fleet of Hawk of aircraft availability, all of which will with Rolls-Royce to provide support for fast jets set the support service bar ensure our future fast jet pilots have the the ‘Adour’ engines which power the Hawk higher than ever before. right equipment to conduct their flying aircraft, with testing, repairs and overhauls “Our partners, BAE Systems and training.” taking place at RAF Valley and in Filton, Rolls-Royce, will provide through-life The five year support contracts will play Bristol, sustaining 40 jobs across both sites. support, including maintenance and a crucial role in providing a range of

8 desider April 2016 T&E begins here

All images©MOD Crown Copyright

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LTPA advert 15062015.indd 1 15/06/2015 16:43 NEWS Simon Bollom talks retirement After 13 years working within DE&S, Chief of Materiel (Air), Air Marshal Sir Simon Bollom, is preparing for retirement. He talks to Desider about how he’ll miss being part of a big team, and the key to delivering equipment and support to the front line

ir Marshal Bollom, who has and dramatically reduced costs. been in the RAF for over 35 “My proudest achievement (over Ayears, joined DE&S – then my career in acquisition) is the roll out known as the Defence Logistics of support transformation across a Organisation – in 2003 as a project number of platforms and equipments team leader. which has saved Defence billions.” He took up the role as Director He added: “It all started for me as Combat Air in January 2008, which the Tornado project team leader in led on to the position of Chief of 2005, when we needed to save 30 Materiel (Air), which he has held since per cent on support costs to retain October 2012. Tornado in service. “For the last three and a half “Since then we have developed the years I have been responsible for concept and rolled it out across the acquisition and support for all fixed fixed and rotary wing sector.” wing air platforms, and the Head of Air Marshal Bollom will be Airworthiness in DE&S,” he said. remembered for the delivery of some Discussing his time at DE&S, Air important programmes and as a Marshal Bollom said: “I’ve always key driver of change. Above all, he enjoyed acquisition; the challenge hopes that he has begun to put the of delivering equipment to the front right framework in place to allow his line, solving complex problems and domain to continue delivering. negotiating with industry. My favourite When asked about how bit about the job is delivering, getting transformation would help DE&S to deliver, he said: “We have some truly outstanding people in DE&S, I’ve worked here long enough to know that. Our people are craftsmen and through DE&S transformation we’ll We have some truly give them a new tool set to realise outstanding“ people in their potential and deliver better outcomes for our Armed Forces.” DE&S, I’ve worked He conceeded that leaving DE&S and the Royal Air Force after 35 years here long enough to was going to be a real change. know that “I’ll look for something very different outside of defence to challenge me,” Air Marshal Sir Simon Bollom he said. “I might even take up gardening, something which until now I’ve loathed, it must be my age.” Air Marshal Bollom starts a new chapter in his life with a 10-day trip ” to the Caribbean, somewhere that new air systems or improved support he’s never been, adding that if he had into the hands of the front line.” one piece of personal advice for his Air Marshal Bollom has a passion successor it would be to “take your for delivery and he proudly identifies leave – it’s a rewarding but challenging some of his highhlights. appointment which can easily consume “During my time as CoM(A), we’ve all your time,” he added with a smile. brought Voyager and A400M into He concluded: “I’ve had a brilliant service, Airseeker, Watchkeeper, 35 years in the RAF. I’ve been on real taken the first delivery of F35s, plus operations and spent nearly 14 years in many important capability upgrades. procurement and loved every minute of “Celebrating a job well done with it, both the highs and the lows. the team gives me a real buzz.” “I would absolutely recommend During his time in post, Air Marshal DE&S as an employer to others. Bollom has been key to improving Nowhere else could you experience delivery performance, including such diversity, with the opportunity to adherence to time and cost for work on so many different projects and acquisition. He has also improved deliver such significant results.” support efficiency across the domain

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HMS Artful Commissioned submarines to be fitted with the Common Combat System (CCS), which was delivered ahead of time by DE&S. CCS is regarded as the digital ‘brain’ of the boat controlling its ‘eyes’, ‘ears’ and ‘nervous system’. Artful’s two sister boats Astute and Ambush have already successfully conducted operational deployments. Both have deployed to the Mediterranean and Middle East where they have been involved in anti- smuggling and security operations and have provided Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) capability in support of anti-terrorism operations in the region. The Astute-class are the largest, most advanced and most powerful attack submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy, combining world leading sensors, design and weaponry in a versatile vessel. HMS Astute, HMS Ambush, and Left: First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir George Zambellas, on board HMS Artful now HMS Artful, are the first of the class to be accepted by Navy will live up to her name, and I look Command, which is responsible stute-class submarine HMS forward to supporting her in the many for operating all of the Royal Navy’s Artful officially became a years ahead.” vessels. The next two submarines Acommissioned warship of the Since she was handed over to the in the class, Audacious and Anson, Royal Navy at a ceremony at HM Royal Navy by DE&S in December are currently being built in Barrow, Naval Base Clyde. 2015, Artful, built by BAE Systems, with Agamemnon and the, as yet, Guest of honour at the ceremony has been conducting trials to prove unnamed Boat 7 to follow. was the submarine’s sponsor Lady her systems and equipment at Zambellas, who had named Artful in sea, ahead of her first operational * See Desider’s feature with the September 2013, before her launch in deployment later in 2017. Astute team on page 17 May 2014, in Barrow in Furness. The highlight of the trials was the Below: The Amanda Zambellas was joined by firing of six heavyweight Spearfish commissioning at her husband Admiral Sir George torpedoes on the British Underwater HM Naval Base Zambellas, the First Sea Lord Testing and Evaluation Centre near the Clyde, Home of and head of the Naval Service, Isle of Skye. the UK Submarine representatives of the companies Artful is the first of the Royal Navy’s Service involved in Artful’s construction and operation as well as the submarine’s 150 crew, their families and friends. Admiral Zambellas said: “This is a red letter day that marks the beginning of the next crucial stage of development for the Royal Navy and its Submarine Service. “The ceremony dramatically increases the operational capability of the Submarine Service with the commissioning of our third Astute- class boat, and is another milestone in the journey towards HM Naval Base Clyde becoming the UK Submarine Centre of Specialisation by 2020.” Lady Amanda Zambellas said: “Over a decade has passed since her keel was laid, so it is hugely rewarding for everyone involved with the project to finally see the White Ensign flying from her stern. While the technology inside is impressive, it is the Ship’s Company who really give HMS Artful her soul. Through their expertise and a good sense of fun, I know they really

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A UK home for AJAX inister for Defence prosperity of the nation. At the official openng the Ajax Procurement Philip Dunne has “The Ajax programme alone is prototype made a triumphant Mofficially opened the Merthyr sustaining 2,800 jobs across the entrance, advancing towards the Tydfil engineering hub which will country, 550 of which are here audience flanked by two soldiers, and become the assembly, integration in Wales. Thanks to the close turned its highly effective 40-millimetre and testing centre for Ajax and the partnership between the UK cannon in demonstration. next generation of the British Army’s Government and industry, this site will Major General Talbot-Rice said: armoured vehicles. spring back into life as a significant “This was a really important day for The facility, a disused forklift truck centre of employment and bring in the British Army. Ajax represents the factory now managed by General valuable skills with a lasting legacy for biggest single order for armoured Dynamics UK, will create 250 highly the entire region.” vehicles for the British Army in skilled jobs, an addition to the 300 The Minister visited the facility, three decades, as well as a major jobs sustained in nearby Oakdale, and which will start production in 2017, step towards putting world beating a further 2,250 jobs throughout the and enjoyed a static display of equipment into our soldiers’ hands.“ UK supply chain. armoured vehicles which included The first of the 589 production Minister Philip Dunne said: “This Foxhound, Ocelot and Ares. He standard vehicles is expected to be is a very important project for the was joined by Major General Robert completed in 2017. Ajax will be a Merthyr Tydfil economy and the first Talbot-Rice, Head of Armoured key component in the Army’s future visible demonstration of the new Vehicles and Kevin Connell, Vice Strike brigades and represents a step strategic objective of the Ministry of President of General Dynamics Land change in capability. Above: Ajax Defence, highlighted in the Strategic Systems-UK, as well as First Minister The facility was dedicated to Sir Below: Major Jude Defence and Security Review (SDSR), of Wales Carwyn Jones and several Tasker Watkins, a World War II hero Priesley with his that Defence should play a part in the Welsh MPs. decorated with the Victoria Cross. Armoured Trials and Development Unit (ATDU) team

This was a really important day for the British Army.“ Ajax represents the biggest single order for armoured vehicles for the British Army in three decades, as well as a major step towards putting world beating equipment into our soldiers’ hands Major General Robert Talbot-Rice

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Type 26 gets extra £472m

he Ministry of Defence (MOD) chain.” submarine warfare. Above: Artist has announced a further £472 Key equipment purchases will Defence Secretary Michael Fallon impression million for the Royal Navy’s Type include diesel generators; sonar said: “These highly advanced ships of the Type 26 T Global Combat 26 Global Combat Ship programme. domes, which form the bow-mounted will help keep Britain safe and Ship. Credit: It will allow DE&S to continue sonar used for anti-submarine support our ship-building industry. BAE Systems progressing the project’s detection; helicopter handling Investing in them is part of our plan demonstration phase, with additional equipment to control the movement to increase defence spending so our investment for detailed design work, of aircraft to and from the hanger; Armed Forces have the most modern the purchase of essential equipment mission bay side doors, for the loading equipment they need.” and setting up shore-based testing and unloading of equipment; and the The Type 26 Global Combat Ship facilities. stabiliser and steering gear system, will be in service with the Royal Navy This demonstrates an enduring key elements of the T26 navigation into the 2050s. The ship is being commitment to the programme, system. These will all provide further designed so it can be upgraded as centred on the Clyde, which work for the Type 26 Global Combat new technology develops, so that it will benefit suppliers across the Ship supply chain. remains relevant and capable far into UK including companies in Fife, Meanwhile, shore-based testing the future. Midlothian, Derbyshire, Warwickshire, facilities will assess key parts of the West Yorkshire, Hampshire, Dorset, ship’s power and propulsion system Bristol and Leicestershire. and the Combat System. Tony Douglas, Chief Executive of The Type 26 Global Combat Ship We have a long history of delivering DE&S, said: “We have a long history will replace in time the Type 23 complex warships“ in the UK and as of delivering complex warships frigates, and will undertake the Royal in the UK and as a result of this Navy’s three core roles - warfighting, a result of this announcement we announcement we will continue maritime security and international will continue to develop a clear way to develop a clear way forward for engagement - worldwide. the Type 26 Global Combat Ship Together with two additional forward for the Type 26 Global Combat Programme that reflects the recent Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), Strategic Defence and Security making five OPVs in total, and the Ship Programme Review, in which the design is planned light General Purpose Frigate, Tony Douglas, Chief Executive of DE&S further matured while extending the the warships will be a key element of engagement of the wider UK supply the UK’s defence, specialising in anti- ”

16 desider April 2016 FEATURE Astute, a class above Desider talks to Submarine Production, the team responsible for the delivery of the Astute-class submarines to the Royal Navy

Continued on next page ↘

desider April 2016 17

FEATURE

Continued from previous page

he Astute Programme is one of the coverage can be demoralising. However, demonstrate the safe operation of the most complex projects undertaken we have a strong sense of purpose, we are submarines. Tby DE&S and one which draws wide clear about what we need to achieve and Richard said: “The safety case covers attention from the public and media. we are committed to delivering to the best all the systems on board, processes “We are hugely proud of the work we of our ability. My job, as Team Leader, is to such as diving and surfacing and the do in support of the Royal Navy”, said make sure that each member knows that identification and mitigation of hazards. Submarine Production Team Leader Julie their contribution makes a real difference.” “From an engineering perspective, our Morris. “We are very conscious that the The team’s presence is split between team is responsible for a whole range of equipment we provide is operated and Abbey Wood and BAE Systems’ shipyard things, from the design of the pressure hull maintained by members of our Armed at Barrow-in-Furness, with one member of to the integrity of the numerous valves and Forces, our nation’s sons and daughters, staff based at HMNB Clyde. hatches that keep the water out, as well as who volunteer to be put in harm’s way and In Abbey Wood, the team’s focus is set carpets and ovens.” who are routinely asked to do exceptional on the engineering, support, safety, project In Barrow, where Astute Boats 4-7 are things. That is why we do what we do, to control, finance and commercial aspects of currently in various stages of construction, give them what they deserve, the very best the Astute programme. the team provides project management, equipment that we can. Richard Long manages a team of quality assurance and product acceptance “On high profile, complex programmes six engineers who deal with the naval activities. like Astute, it is inevitable to get media architecture aspects of the design and Captain Mark Gale, Department Head interest. This team works incredibly hard the platform safety case, a huge suite (Barrow), said: “Over the last 12 months, every day, and sometimes negative media of documents which describe and the Submarine Production team has

18 desider April 2016

FEATURE

supported the achievement of a number build. This will include launch, trim dive and one of the team’s principal objectives this of significant milestones for the Astute testing of the nuclear reactor. year is to place Boat 6, Agamemnon, and programme. The highlight for me was Gordon Mailer is the MOD Project Boat 7, still to be named, on contract. seeing Boat 3, Artful, leaving the shipyard Manager for Boat 4 and interacts with Andrew Charles is the MOD Project in August to commence contractor’s sea the shipbuilder on a daily basis. He said: Manager for Boats 6 and 7. He said: “My trials, prior to being formally handed over to “The relationship with BAE Systems colleague Neil Pirie and I are responsible the Royal Navy.” definitely benefits from me being available for the project management of boats 6 and The team also benefits from first-hand in Barrow. Both DE&S and the company 7, managing their delivery in accordance knowledge and experience. have the same aim, which is to deliver the with agreed schedules and cost. Although Sea Trials Manager John Delaney joined best product we can to the Royal Navy as we are based in Abbey Wood we spend in 2007 as a Requirements Manager, but he quickly, safely and as cost effectively as a large part of the year with our supplier, has been involved with submarines for all possible.” BAE, in Barrow. Being away from home his life. He enlisted in the Royal Navy after To achieve this, DE&S is implementing can be challenging at times, especially for leaving school and served for 24 years. a series of measures, such as two-way our families, but we are both clear in how He was a crew member aboard all of the relocation packages, to improve the important our roles are to the successful Resolution class, and was even involved in prospects of enticing people to Barrow and completion of the Astute programme and the UK rescue mission offered by the UK allow them to establish a successful career are very focussed on that goal.” for the Russian submarine Kursk disaster. in the area. He said: “Living in a submarine is a Barry Miller, Build Portfolio Manager, routine, you get accustomed to it. I used said: “We are significantly growing MOD’s If you are interested in joining the team to love it. Now, most of my time my role footprint in the shipyard at Barrow, which there are a number of vacancies in both involves following Artful around while opens up new opportunities for most ABW & Barrow across several functions. she completes her sea trials, so I am on functions and a career structure. My move Please contact SMP Business Manager, the road quite frequently, which I enjoy here was supported by the MOD and the Louise Hames, for further details. immensely.” role is a new and exciting one, working with The next two years will involve a our contractor and liaising with staff at all significant amount of testing and levels, both within the company and MOD.” commissioning of Boat 4, Audacious, as Following signature of the whole boat the submarine reaches the final stages of contract for Boat 5, Anson, in November,

We are very conscious that the equipment we provide“ is operated and maintained by members of our Armed Forces, our nation’s sons and daughters, who volunteer to be put in harm’s way and who are routinely asked to do exceptional things Julie Morris, Submarine Production Team Leader ”

desider April 2016 19 NEWS

New policy on SMEs set to cut through red tape

he Ministry of Defence (MOD) has value for money, and boost exciting new ever stronger over time. With the imminent launched a new policy for Small and companies.” launch of the MoD’s new SME policy, it TMedium Enterprises (SMEs), cutting red The changes are all underpinned by is encouraging to see that even greater tape to make it easier for companies to work wider MOD commitments to encourage advances in the MOD’s support for SME’s with Defence. competition and make it easier for will now be made. This is fabulous news for The changes will help DE&S play its role companies to innovate within the Defence all SME’s in the Defence Sector.” in the drive towards the MOD’s target of 25 supply chain. per cent of all procurement spending – both These include ensuring all contract direct and indirect – going to SMEs by 2020. opportunities which arise as part of large The final set of published figures for the last programmes are better advertised and The new SME Policy will see: parliament showed the MOD as achieving competed and, where appropriate, removing a total of 19.4 per cent, or £3.8 billion, with turnover threshold requirements from the • A new Supply Chain Champion and SMEs in 2014-15. procurement selection process to give a supply-chain advocate network, to In order to achieve the spend target of smaller companies a fairer chance. provide single points of contact for 25 per cent by 2019-20 this figure will need The policy refresh is just one of the suppliers to increase to around £4.9 billion, and the ways in which the MOD is making it refreshed SME policy is designed to help easier for SMEs to work with the Defence • A fresh assault on red tape with achieve this. sector, and it follows the announcement unnecessary bureaucracy amended The revised policy (see panel) has been by the Government of a £800 million or scrapped by the middle of 2016. developed in partnership with SMEs, Innovation Fund, aimed at harnessing the The MOD are exploring ways trade associations and other government entrepreneurship and ingenuity of the private of simplifying the procurement departments. sector and in turn helping the UK to maintain processes, for example by Minister of State for Defence Procurement an operational edge over adversaries. investigating the use of purchase Philip Dunne said: “We spend £4 billion a Hugh Griffiths is the CEO of SME Inzpire, order templates for the simplest low year with small firms, and this new policy is a a provider of consultancy and training value and low volume contracts signal of our intent to do more to tap into the services, as well as a developer of software innovation of SMEs in our supply chain. applications for military customers. • A new online tool for suppliers that “This new approach will harness UK He said: “We find that the MOD is an highlights opportunities, explains brainpower so that our Armed Forces get excellent partner for SMEs to work with our policy and advises how they can the best possible equipment, deliver better and our relationship with them has got target funding streams

Defence Minister Philip Dunne at the UK Defence Solutions Centre in February where he highlighted the importance of SMEs

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Untitled-1 1 17/03/2016 09:27 NEWS news in brief

CARDIFF SHOWCASE Barry Burton, Director of procurement marketplace. Corporate Affairs, represented As well as more than 100 DE&S at the Defence stands there were zones Procurement, Research, including Buyer Excellence, Technology & Exportability Research and Technology (DPRTE) event in Cardiff. Export, and Business Growth The event, attended by more Knowledge Transfer Zones. than 1,500 people, provides Mr Burton presented the buyers and suppliers with event’s keynote speech to an interest in the defence a packed Keynote Arena acquisition supply chain the highlighting DE&S’ desire to chance to enhance knowledge, engage with new suppliers and share best practice and hear their ideas. showcase innovation. “At DE&S we are very clear It also allows them to gain an that everything we do is done WISE DRAGONS insight into the latest policies to support Her Majesty’s Armed and initiatives currently Forces,” he told the audience. A team of DE&S Finance Stroud College’s WISE Campus impacting the defence Apprentices have narrowly in March. missed out on progressing to The challenge - only given the regional final of the local on arrival - was to prepare a West of England Business presentation on why every UK Challenge. business should employ an The team member -: Montana apprentice. Mulzac, Adam Wilson, Andy The team then delivered the McCabe, Scott Crane, and presentation to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ Tom Summerhill - attended the style panel made up of local event, organised by the National dignitaries including the CEO of Apprentice Service (NAS), at the Chamber of Commerce. South Gloucestershire and

FROM ENERGY TO DEFENCE

It has been announced that Stephen Lovegrove, currently Permanent Secretary of the Department for Energy & Climate Change, will assume the role of MOD Permanent Secretary upon Jon Thompson’s departure. The Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon said: “I am delighted that Stephen Lovegrove is to be our new Permanent Secretary and he will bring his wealth of experience from DECC, the Shareholder Executive and the private sector. ARMED FORCES DAY I look forward to working with DE&S is proud to support our Armed Forces and now there him to implement the SDSR, to are less than 100 days to go until Armed Forces Day, which make Defence more innovative, takes place on Saturday, June 25. and to protect this country.” variety of roles. I look forward There are many Armed Forces Day events taking place across Mr Lovegrove said: “I to getting to grips with its the UK from Lochgilphead in Scotland to Jersey in the English am thrilled to be joining the many different challenges, not Channel. To find an event near you visit the events listing at Ministry of Defence: keeping least implementing last year’s https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/find-events/ Britain safe and employing Strategic Defence and Security over 250,000 people all over Review.” the world in a hugely diverse

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Untitled-4 1 17/03/2016 09:37 A celebration of Sea King

Poignant: Five Sea Kings pass over Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol during their final flight last month fter 47 years of delivering Royal strong relationships, both within the project Project Team, both past and present, who Navy and RAF operations, the team, across industry and with the Front Line tirelessly gave their time to make sure that Amajority of the Sea King fleet has Commands.” the front line users had the best equipment been retired from service. Sea King Mk3, Mk4 and Mk5 aircraft available. Air Vice-Marshal Julian Young, Director retired from service at the end of March, “I am immensely proud to have been Helicopters; Rear Admiral Keith Blount, after almost five decades of sterling work the last Sea King Project Team Leader Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Aviation supporting operational, humanitarian and and to have been part of the Sea King and Carriers); DE&S employees past and search and rescue roles worldwide. Eight helicopters’ remarkable achievements and present; Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Mk7 aircraft will continue to fly while the its significant contributions to Defence”. personnel; veterans and AgustaWestland Airborne Surveillance & Control (ASaC) Lieutenant Commander Bob Bond Ltd representatives all celebrated the capability is transitioned to the Merlin fleet was one of the aircraft crew members iconic aircraft in a ceremony at the Fleet under the Crowsnest project. who welcomed visitors on board of the Air Arm Museum (FAAM) in Yeovil. All marks of Sea King were on display at Mk4 aircraft, which did a ‘goodbye flight’ Air Vice-Marshal Young thanked all the the AgustaWestland site in Yeovil, in full view around the South West a few days later. people who served within the Sea King of staff employed in DE&S’s Centenary House He said: “This marks the end of an era. Project Team. He said: “I maintained the building. Hundreds of DE&S and industry The Sea Kings have proven to be a very Sea King helicopter in the Falkland Islands employees dropped in throughout the day to capable and versatile aircraft, and they as a junior officer, and it is with much take a last look at the aircraft they helped to have done a fantastic job. We will be sorry sadness, though a huge amount of pride, manufacture and support. to see them go, but we are looking forward that we say goodbye to the Sea King and Captain Kieran O’Brien Royal Navy, Sea to the future with Merlin Mk4.” mark the end of the project team. King Project Team Leader, said, “This is The four aircraft flew from Yeovil to “Since its introduction to UK Service an emotional day. I started my service with FAAM, where they circled the airfield and with the Royal Navy in 1969, the MOD Sea Kings and have spent nearly two years landed in front of the assembled guests. has purchased over 180 Sea Kings and as the Team Leader. It is a sad goodbye, Also present at the ceremony were former that fleet has flown over 1.48 million flying but the team and the aircraft have done Sea King team members, who didn’t want hours. Delivering 47 years - and still an exceptional job throughout 47 years of to miss the chance to say goodbye to the counting - of successful support takes service. Today is a fantastic opportunity helicopters. dedicated effort and the maintenance of to recognise all the unsung heroes in the NEWS

BFPOieutenant General Paul Jaques the support is of agreements deliveringlike this costs of the Enduring Families Free CBE, Chief of Materiel (Land) one between Government and Royal Mail Service, which allows relatives for DE&S has – on behalf of the Mail as part of the Armed Forces and friends within the UK or at BFPO Above: Royal Mail’s L Chief Customer Ministry of Defence (MOD) - signed an Covenant.” addresses to send letters and small Officer Mike £11 million agreement with Royal Mail Forces Post Offices based all over parcels to military personnel on Newnham and Lt the world handle service personnel’s operations overseas for free. to continue to provide the carriage of Gen Paul Jaques mail to and from service personnel mail while it is overseas, with the Royal Mike Newnham, Royal Mail’s Chief sign the agreement based overseas. Mail taking over its handling when Customer Officer, said: “Royal Mail Below: Lt Gen The agreement, which reaffirms the it reaches the UK, whether at the is delighted that its long standing Jaques tours the relationship between Royal Mail and beginning or end of its journey. contract with the British Forces Post BFPO head office at the British Forces Post Office (BFPO), The Forces Mail Settlement, in Office is continuing. RAF Northolt means military personnel will continue place until March 2020, sees the “We are proud to play our part in to be able keep in touch with family BFPO receive a percentage of the delivering mail to our Armed Forces and friends back in the UK, wherever cost of postage for the letters and stationed around the world.” they are in the world, at affordable parcels it handles from Royal Mail. rates. The Royal Mail also pays half the In accordance with the Armed Forces Covenant, sending mail to personnel overseas will remain at inland UK prices. For Service men and women on operations, the vital action of keeping in touch with home will remain free. Lt Gen Jaques signed the Forces Mail Settlement during a visit to the BFPO head office at RAF Northolt. He said: “There is nothing like getting a letter from back home, whether you’re a few hours away or on the other side of the world. “This deal will ensure that friends and family members can continue to support our troops overseas with letters, parcels and packages without incurring extra postage costs. “It is crucial that Service personnel, who work so hard to keep Britain safe, both at home and abroad, have

26 desider April 2016 NEWS

Training boost for Royal Navy he Aircraft Carrier Alliance (ACA) has and medical emergencies. ship’s defence control officer, added: signed over the first compartments of Over the longer-term it will also help the “Having the capability to start our damage THMS Queen Elizabeth to her crew, more catering teams train their people in using control training on-board the ship so early than a year ahead of when the ship is due to stores equipment, such as the portable is extremely exciting and will save us a vast be delivered to the Royal Navy. electric transporters and lifts. amount of time. It will help us accelerate our The carriers will be the centrepiece of Minister of State for Defence Procurement, learning opportunities and go some way to Britain’s maritime capability. Each 65,000 Philip Dunne, said: “The UK’s new aircraft make sure our people are ready to operate tonne aircraft carrier will provide the Armed carriers are impressive feats of engineering, the ship ahead of sea trials. Forces with a four acre military operating brought to life by the best of British “While we could undertake similar training base, which can be deployed worldwide. shipbuilding skills. on-board other ships, there’s nothing like The vessels will be versatile enough to be “This latest milestone marks the training on the actual vessel you’ll sail on as used for operations ranging from supporting demonstrable progress being made in we learn the specialist techniques required to war efforts to providing humanitarian aid and the progressive handover of HMS Queen operate such a large and complex warship.” disaster relief. Elizabeth to the Royal Navy crew, allowing HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince The six large compartments handed over them to conduct vital training before taking of Wales are being delivered by the Aircraft are the first sections of the ship the crew has this state-of-the-art vessel to sea. Carrier Alliance, a unique partnering taken ownership of and marks an important “The carriers, supported by our £178 relationship between BAE Systems, Thales step towards delivering the nation’s flagship. billion investment in equipment for our Armed UK, Babcock and the Ministry of Defence. The compartments are part of the dry Forces, will spearhead Britain’s sea power for A national endeavour, at its peak the storage areas for the catering teams and the next five decades, protecting UK interests programme directly employed 10,000 people will be used to train the ship’s company in both at home and abroad.” across six UK build yards. damage control including fire-fighting, flood Lieutenant Commander John Ball, the

The UK’s“ new aircraft carriers are impressive feats of engineering, brought to life by the best of British shipbuilding skills Philip Dunne, Minister for Defence Procurement

Above: ACA hand over the first compartments onboard HMS Queen Elizabeth ”

desider April 2016 27 NEWS news in brief COMMERCIAL GRADUATES EVENT Minister for Defence Director Steven Morgan, Director “It’s really important that Procurement Philip Dunne Commercial Management people are recognised for attended the Commercial Control and Assurance Morag their hard work and it is Graduate Alumni Event at Stuart, Director Commercial acknowledged that they are Abbey Wood. Function Mike Greatwich, and doing a great job for DE&S or for The annual event celebrates Commercial Professionalism the MOD.” the successful completion Programme Lead Graham of the Commercial Graduate Hyndman. Programme for its members Successful graduate Jon and this year the event also Christian also provided an celebrated the first cohort of honest and insightful talk Commercial Apprentices to about his experience on the complete their programme. programme and excellent advice Guest speakers were asked to those currently on it. for their perspective on the All of the successful Graduates “Grow Our Own” strategy, and Apprentices were presented which focuses on growing and with their graduation certificates developing already employed by Mike Greatwich and have staff. There are already been wished good luck in their approximately 150 past and new roles in the department. current programme members Graduate Amy Barnett said: working within DE&s and the “It was an excellent event which Ministry of Defence (MOD). attracted almost 200 people At the event Jane Squire, and I think the fact that Mr project lead for both Dunne, Steven Morgan, Morag programmes, welcomed the Stuart and Mike Greatwich all speakers which included Mr attended gave it a great sense of Dunne, MOD Commercial credibility. BATCIS APPEAL The Battlefield and Tactical “If you are involved in a large Communications and project you need to be talking Information Systems (BATCIS) to us because this technology delivery team are urging DE&S provides the Armed Forces with project managers to engage a future proofed, cyber-secure with them at the earliest communications capability and opportunity. saves lives.” BATCIS specialise in meeting Through the nature of today’s relentless demand for this work, ISF has become all types of quality information increasingly more visible within in battle situations including DE&S and has supported the safe, secure verbal and digital delivery of major programmes communications, as well as up such as AJAX, the Queen GOING OFF ROAD to the minute battlefield images Elizabeth Carrier class and to ensure strategic and tactical Foxhound. A new five-year contract has they are able to perform to the decisions can be made in an David Pilch, Assistant Head of given the MOD regular access customer’s requirements in instant. DE&S Protected Mobility Vehicle to facilities where vehicles are operation. Within BATCIS, the Integration Programme, has worked with tested to ensure they meet Phil Burton, Deputy Head of Support and Fielding (ISF) team ISF on the delivery of Husky, the demands of operational Operational Support Vehicles members pride themselves on Warthog, Mastiff, Wolfhound and conditions. Programme at DE&S, said: personally liaising with individual Ridgback vehicles over the last The Operational Support “The Millbrook contract offers delivery teams, the wider seven years. Programmes Testing Advice us access to specialised military user community and He said: “Early engagement & Trialling Arrangement (OSP independent automotive other key stakeholders involved with the BATCIS ISF team is TATA) is an enabling contract engineering advice and the in delivering projects across paramount and utilising their between OSP and Millbrook much needed ability to test defence. expertise will pay dividends when Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. vehicles over terrain that is Ben Redstone, integration delivering a capability. There is The contract will save time representative of the user’s support manager at BATCIS, a danger of underestimating the replacing the need to negotiate demand. This contract will said: “The message we really complexities of Tactical Comms lengthy individual bespoke bring rigour to our testing want to get out there is that and it’s not simply a case of arrangements for each trial. It regimes to ensure we buy the engaging with us early means adding them in at the end.” will also assist OSP in delivering best equipment for our Armed we can come in and help Email ISS Dev-BATCIS-ISF- new and in-service vehicles Forces.” guide projects to a successful Group (MULTIUSER) for more and equipment by testing that conclusion. information.

28 desider April 2016 NEWS

Further funding for cutting edge Successor Submarine programme

efence Secretary Michael Fallon This confirms the announcement highlighted by DE&S’ Chief of Materiel has announced a further £642 made in last year’s Strategic Defence (Fleet) Simon Lister in February. Dmillion of investment for the and Security Review and will provide That block of funding was provided Successor submarine programme. a sound foundation for the next phase to enable BAE Systems to develop the The funding will help to progress where a staged investment approach design of the submarine, including the work on the four new submarines will be implemented. layout of equipment and systems, and that will begin replacing the Vanguard The new submarine will be one to develop manufacturing processes, class, from the 2030s. The invstment of the stealthiest submarines in the including the production of early will also go towards new parts and world. It will also be the safest and prototypes. facilities, as well as further design most technically advanced submarine The latest investment of £642 work. ever built in the UK. million will take the total cost of the The funding will include £225 million Defence Secretary said: “Our assessment phase to £3.9 billion. for new facilities at BAE Systems nuclear deterrent provides the ultimate Four Vanguard submarines – which at Barrow-in-Furness, where the guarantee of our security and our way currently maintain the UK’s nuclear submarines will be assembled and will of life. That’s why we are getting on deterrent - will be replaced from the ensure the submarines are built with with this investment. early 2030s. Within the next four maximum efficiency. “This money will support further years all the UK’s submarines will be It will also see significant investment design work, new infrastructure and based in Scotland. This will lead to the in the UK/US collaboration for the the purchase of key parts such as creation of 1,400 new jobs taking the Common Missile Compartment engines and gearboxes, as well as total number employed at HM Naval and around £200 million for the jobs across the UK.” Base Clyde to 8,200 by 2022. submarine’s power plant, including The announcement comes shortly long lead items. after the £201 million funding package

desider April 2016 29 FIRST PERSON

The project“ manager of the Starship Enterprise was Captain Kirk. He made the calls. The Project Controls individual within that command crew was Mr Spock ”

Picture: Andrew Linnett

30 desider April 2016 FIRST PERSON

On Transformation and a New Frontier Tim Sheldon has been the head of the Cost Assurance and Analysis Service (CAAS) team for five years. He has recently been appointed as the new Corporate Head of Project Controls, a critical new function that aims to implement a disciplined approach to project controls across the organisation

Brief outline of your career? from CH2MH and Bechtel to set it up. capability to meet the customer’s needs. In a I joined the MOD in 1997, just after It will encompass key disciplines such as football team, you don’t have all the players Abbey Wood opened. I came in as a scientist estimating, cost management, scheduling, risk being goalies or forwards. Instead, you have by background and pursued a career in management and in-contract performance different people with different skills that come acquisition. Thereafter I experienced a variety management. We need to establish how we together to play. For the functional group, of roles with the Defence Procurement configure an agreed baseline for our projects this is about having the right kind of people Agency, and the Defence Communications and then manage performance and change available within the teams to go on the pitch Services Agency at Corsham, as well as with against it in a consistent way. We are currently and deliver the business as required. the Defence Logistics Organisations and working to go-live with the new function Historically, there hasn’t been a strong latterly DE&S. I have had a variety of project towards the end of 2016, linked to the wider functional approach in all the disciplines, leadership-type roles, which led me to become go-live for functional management across the as some have been stronger than others. the head of Cost Assurance and Analysis whole of the DE&S. What will change is that there will be a Service (CAAS) over five years ago, and I have Alongside defining how project controls more consistent approach as to how the just been appointed the new DE&S lead for will operate, we also have a big focus on the DE&S functions actually operate. The DE&S Project Controls. people that make up the new function, because corporate functional managers will be processes are nothing without people to use people looking at the big picture, at what the them. We have to develop a Project Controls organisation needs as far as the functions are What does your new role as Corporate experts who can understand and apply the concerned, and making sure we are responding Head of Project Controls involve? processes, as well as have successful careers to that. My role is focused on establishing a new and good prospects within DE&S. function within DE&S called Project Controls, which, basic as it sounds, enables the effective What benefits is it going to bring to the control of our projects. This means bringing a What is the difference between Project organisation? This is going to have a very positive impact degree of rigour to understanding the basis of Controls and Project Management? Project Management is the leadership role. in the way we support and develop our people. what a project is, what we contract for and how They are the people responsible for taking the It is also going to be a sustainable and healthy we track progress in terms of its subsequent decisions on the direction and delivery of a model in terms of talent, recruitment and delivery, be that a new acquisition or support project. Project Controls is about providing retention. And let us not forget the efficiency for equipment in service. the facts to enable project managers to take aspect - we have to rethink why we pay the right leadership decisions. I was a kid of consultants to come in and do similar pieces What is the most exciting project you the 70’s and 80’s, so I grew up with Star Trek, of work in different ways. In addition, the have worked on within DE&S? which helps me with the following analogy: lack of consistent approaches means we have There are too many to name! I have had The project manager of the Starship to train people in different ways, which is the opportunity to work on a lot of the big, Enterprise was Captain Kirk. He made inefficient and costs more money. There is a challenging projects, such as Astute and the calls. The Project Controls individual people benefit side, but we can’t forget we are Successor in submarines, the Queen Elizabeth within that command crew was Mr Spock. a business. aircraft carrier, the Type 26 frigate and the He gave the objective, evidence based view Ajax family of armoured vehicles. to the Captain. Project Controls advises the CAAS provide cost management support What do you enjoy doing in your spare Captain Kirks in a project so they can take to the key DE&S projects, particularly those time? the best decision at the right time, bringing I have a very busy life at present, because I that are non-competitive, and I have handled an objective, disciplined approach to project come here and deal with serious matters and a broad level of engagement over the course of decision making. then I go home to my six-year old son and the last five years. my two and a half-year old daughter. I enjoy What is the balanced matrix, and spending my free time with the family, and What is the Project Controls function? that keeps me very occupied. Although Project Controls is a new function how will DE&S work once this is in DE&S, it is a well-established function implemented? The balanced matrix is about getting the for our Managed Service Partners, so we right people at the right time to deliver the are working very closely with colleagues

desider April 2016 31 RECRUITMENT CASE STUDY DE&S Senior Commercial Officer Debbie Probert talks about challenges, benefits, and her aspiration to become the next Chelsea manager

Name: Debbie Probert

Job title: SACC and JSENS Senior Commercial Officer How long have you worked for DE&S? I have been in the Ministry of Defence (MOD) for just over 22 years and have worked in various roles in the Procurement Executive (PE), Defence Procurement Agency (DPA), Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) where I have spent the last three years.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in DE&S? I joined the MOD in 1993 as an Administrative Assistant in the Director General Submarines (DGSM) area straight from school. My uncle, a Navy Commander at the time, said it was an excellent place to work with many benefits and numerous career opportunities. He was right. Since being in the MOD I have worked in the HR function and currently work in the Commercial function where I have more than 15 years experience working in various organisations including DIO and DE&S delivering goods, works and services projects.

What does your role entail? I am the Senior Commercial Officer of the Contract Management team supporting the Situational Awareness Command and Control (SACC) and Joint Sensor & Engagement Networks (JSENS) delivery teams in Intelligence, Surveillance, Target, Acquisition & Reconnaisance (ISTAR). It is an extremely challenging time at present balancing day to day activities. These include drafting contract amendments, developing and maintaining Contract Management Plans and Obligations Matrices for projects, and Post Costing. I am also heavily involved with implementing the Good to Pay principles and data cleansing expired contracts and resolving overspends on live contracts.

What’s your ambition? To become the next Chelsea Manager! On a serious note, one day I would like to aspire to become the next Commercial Director. I don’t know which one is more achievable!

What’s the greatest achievement (in your role) to date? Commercial CPP programme and obtaining the CIPS I achieved my MCIPS (the internationally recognised gold professional qualification. As well as being an equal standard of achievement for procurement professionals) in opportunities employer, DE&S has the job security that October 2015 after three gruelling years of study. However will attract people to work here. If you are lucky you may it was well worth the investment both personally and even have a dog working on your floor plate which is very professionally. I also completed the APMP (a respected entertaining. project management qualification) course in January 2016. What are the social benefits of working for DE&S? Why would you recommend DE&S to others as a Going for a team breakfast on a Friday morning! great place to work? DE&S offers numerous benefits including flexible working and flexi time, decent terms and conditions, a pension scheme as well as training opportunities under the

32 desider April 2016 RECRUITMENT WORK FOR DE&S

Welcome to this edition of DE&S jobs in Desider. There are great opportunities available at DE&S and each month we list current and future posts. For even more opportunities visit the Civil Service Jobs Portal at www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk Graduate and apprentice schemes E&S offers a number of top class graduate and vacancies, DE&S offers a number of top class graduate apprenticeship opportunities, providing successful and apprenticeship opportunities, providing successful Dapplicants with “hands-on” experience in roles across a applicants with “hands-on” experience in roles across a range of projects. range of projects. If you have recently left school or university and are More information on the range of graduate and interested in embarking on a career in defence but do apprentice opportunities DE&S has to offer is available not yet have the experience/skills required for our listed www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk

Rewards and benefits n addition to the fantastic variety of cutting edge jobs and which offer numerous discounts to members. an excellent opportunity to develop skills through training, Our headquarters are based in Abbey Wood, Bristol Iincluding working towards professional qualifications, we and, like many other sites, boasts an impressive range also provide first rate benefits for all of our employees. These of facilities including a fully equipped gym, an on site include flexible working, excellent annual leave, maternity nursery, a range of restaurants and coffee bistros and a and paternity allowances as well as a very competitive hairdressers.

pension scheme, eligibility for performance related pay, We understand the commitments our staff have, both s jobs free car parking (caveats apply), a proactive employee inside and outside of the office. Our aim is to provide you engagement, access to Benenden Medical care and the with a place of work which allows you the flexibility you opportunity to join many civil-service clubs such as the require to maintain a great work/life balance. Sports and Social Association and Motoring Club (CSMA) & Equality and diversity

E&S is committed to embracing diversity: it is one of • promoting a workplace that values dignity, respect our core values. Irrespective of gender, marital status, and fairness Drace, religion, age, disability and without reference to social • promoting high standards of behaviour and background or sexual orientation, DE&S operates an complying with the law by creating equality of inclusive environment to allow you to develop your career. opportunity Whether uniformed or civilian, we expect the attitudes of To demonstrate our commitment, we are members of Stonewall, our people to reflect our approach to diversity by: Race for Opportunity, Opportunity Now, The Employers Forum on • fostering a working environment where all staff Disability, The Employers Forum on Age, and we are also affiliated feel comfortable, welcomed and valued for their to a:gender. de contributions Read more about equality and diversity in MOD.

How to apply e are looking for innovative, talented, focused If you would like to view all current vacancies across individuals to join us in being instrumental in defending DE&S and the wider civil service, please visit the Civil WBritain’s interest both at home and overseas. Service Job Portal. DE&S provides the opportunity for a truly rewarding In addition, for an easy, hassle free way of keeping up to career, working on complex, interesting and often date with all the latest vacancies, you can now follow us on sensitive projects of great significance and consequence, Twitter or like our page on Facebook. with excellent training opportunities for your continued professional development.

desider April 2016 33 RECRUITMENT CURRENT VACANCIES

Integrated Business Logistics Support Support Ministry of Defence Bristol, Abbey Wood Ministry of Defence Engineering Closing date: 15 Apr 2016 Bristol, Abbey Wood Closing date: 15 Apr 2016 Weapons

Reference number (Safety) Reference number 1467341 Ministry of Defence 1488094 Salary Bristol, Abbey Wood Salary £30,424 Closing date: 24 Apr 2016 £37,071 Grade Grade Higher Executive Officer / Reference number Senior Executive Officer/ C1 C2 1487355 Post type Post type Salary Permanent Permanent £24,362 Type of role Type of role Grade Operational delivery, Logistics Executive Officer / D Planning, policy, Project s jobs Hours Post type delivery 37 Hours Permanent Hours Type of role 37 Hours Engineering

Hours & 37 Hours DESG Graduate Ministry of Defence Safety and Bristol, Abbey Wood, Environment Engineering Corsham Closing date: 25 Apr 2016 Approval Weapons (Safety) Reference number Authority 1472698 Ministry of Defence Ministry of Defence Salary Bristol, Abbey Wood Bristol, Abbey Wood £25,077 - £25,856 de Closing date: 24 Apr 2016 Closing date: 22 Apr 2016 Grade Graduate Engineer Reference number Reference number Post type 1468743 1487348 Permanent Salary Salary Type of role £37,071 £30,424 Engineering, Information Grade Grade Technology, Science Senior Executive Officer / C1 Higher Executive Officer / C2 Hours Post type Post type 37 Hours Permanent Permanent Type of role Type of role Engineering, Environment Engineering and Sustainability Hours Hours 37 Hours 37 Hours

34 desider April 2016 RECRUITMENT FUTURE VACANCIES Please note – This is the currently planned recruitment activity for the coming months and may be subject to change according to business needs and priorities.

Supply Chain Engineering Managers Maritime Ministry of Defence Ministry of Defence Estimated launch: Estimated launch: Mid April 2016 Finance Mid April 2016 Salary Managers Salary £19,109 & £30,424 Ministry of Defence £30,424 Grade Estimated launch: Grade Administrative Officer / E1 & Late May 2016 Higher Executive Officer / Executive Officer / D C2 Post type Salary Post type Permanent £30,424 & £37,071 Permanent Type of role Grade Type of role SCM / Logistics Higher Executive Officer / C2 Project Hours & Senior Executive Officer / Hours

s jobs 37 Hours C1 37 Hours s jobs Post type Permanent Type of role Finance

& Hours & 37 Hours

CAAS Cost Knowledge and Modellers Information Ministry of Defence Engineering Air Management Estimated launch: Ministry of Defence Ministry of Defence Mid April 2016 de Estimated launch: Estimated launch: de Mid April 2016 Early May 2016 Salary £30,424 Salary Salary Grade £24,362 £24,362 Higher Executive Officer / Grade C2 Grade Executive Officer / D Executive Officer / D Post type Post type Permanent Post type Permanent Permanent Type of role Type of role Engineering Type of role Engineering Information Management Hours Hours 37 Hours Hours 37 Hours 37 Hours

desider April 2016 35 DE&S PEOPLE

60 SECOND SPOTLIGHT

Name? Lana Taverna

Job? I work for Joint Sensor and Engagement Network DT. Our mission is to exploit, deliver and support the latest technology, enabling our frontline forces to make better informed command decisions. I have two roles within the team. One is within the supply chain where I provision, repair and work with suppliers and I also assist the inventory manager with scoping, production and maintenance of inventory. In my other role, Integrated Logistic Support, I manage the team Army Equipment Support Publications (AESPs) and Component Reports.

Your route into DE&S? I was a casual at Filton Jobcentre and applied whilst working there. It was a little strange at first after starting at ABW, as I kept getting recognised by people I had helped at the job centre! I started back in 1996 so have seen a few changes since then.

Your claim to fame? I have served in the Falklands. The Falklands are like Marmite, you either love it or loath it. After the initial culture shock wore off I loved it. I spent most weekends exploring and fell in have also acted as a room steward, helped chauvinist attitudes and traffic queues also love with the style of living, slow pace of life, conserve furniture, carried out condition annoy me. as well as the quietness and peace. reports, worked in the office, served in the The Falkland Islanders are very welcoming shop - anything that they needed me to do. and extremely kind. All that I met were What is your favourite place in the friendly and happy to share their life with me. world? I have not seen it all yet of course, but so far I went to a lot of islands (there are over 700 of What are you most proud of? Parascending from the back of a speedboat I would say I love woodland and if there is a them). My most memorable time was Pebble in Corfu! Despite being uncomfortable with waterfall around and a swimming area even Island where I had an excursion of the whole heights I had a mad moment and decided to better. I love Dartmoor even in the rain and island and perched on the edge of a cliff in conquer my fears! I have a very small photo would live there if it were possible. the sun with a cup of tea watching penguins, of me on the desk just to remind me that no seals, cara cara, vultures and sheep all matter how tough it gets, it was much worse enjoying their natural habitat. It was the most Your secret? tied to the back of a speedboat hundreds of That would be telling! But I try to find memorable and bizarre moment for me and feet off the ground. pleasure in small things every day. the only time in my life I have felt perfectly at That could be banter with workmates, the car peace. starting, even remembering to get my lunch One of the strangest things I did there was If you were sent to a desert island, what out of the fridge. learning to milk a cow and make butter. I am three things would you take with you? Water purifier, a lifetime supply of Prosecco I note every small achievement and have sure it has changed somewhat since as I was and Bear Grylls. something to look forward to - even if it is just there nearly 10 years ago. I would love to go a small thing. I try not to spend time on the back but this time I would probably end up negative as it can take over if you let it. not coming back! What irritates you the most? Bad manners like people not saying please and thank you or jumping queues. People Your advice to anyone? making negative personal comments, bullies, Enjoy as much life as possible before your health deteriorates.

What do you do when you’re away from work? Do you or someone you I enjoy reading about medieval and Tudor history, visiting historical places, gardening, know deserve their 60 and swimming as I am free in the water. In my past life I was a volunteer for the National seconds in the spotlight? Trust and have stayed at a few properties for Email [email protected] a week at a time preparing it for opening. I

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Maximum effort results in citation

submariner now working on Systems Submarines’ site in Barrow, the Successor programme has Cumbria, as the Secondary Propulsion Areceived a citation following his Technical Lead on the Successor performance on an MSc course in programme - was further awarded the Marine Engineering. 2015 Yard Prize, which is given to the Lieutenant Max Platt, who works best naval officer on course. for DE&S Next Generation Nuclear He said: “Until 2014 I was on Propulsion Project Team, was awarded operations on a Vanguard class a certificate recognising his ‘excellent submarine. Now I’m embedded in academic performance’ on the Barrow BAE for the next two years course at University College London. before returning to sea. The citation also recognised his “The MSc course is invaluable for determination and leadership skills. developing our academic rigour. I’ve Making the presentation, Vice improved my Marine Engineering Admiral Simon Lister CB OBE, said: knowledge at a university level rather “Lieutenant Platt achieved a strong than an industry level. set of individual results and was “I have operators’ experience and subsequently awarded a Distinction. now academic study which supports Above: Lt Max Platt receives his citation from CoM Fleet, He’s been placed on the Dean’s list of and aids my decision making and Vice Admiral Simon Lister outstanding MSc students.” assists with my use of analysis and Lt Platt - currently working at BAE design.” Physical challenge of a lifetime E&S employee Squadron Leader Jayne of nerves, excited, anxious, a little short Mitchell pushed her body to the limit in tempered but equally resigned to what was to Da bid to conquer the physical challenge come,” Jayne said. of a lifetime. With the help of water, coffee, jelly babies Jayne, a logistics officer on the C130 and chocolate, Jayne completed the first day in Hercules team in Cambridge, took on a a very respectable 15 hours 30 minutes before Quintuple Enduroman, put on by ultra-event heading for an ice bath and then bed knowing organisers Enduroman. that her alarm would be going off at 5am. The Quintuple Enduroman sees After successfully completing the second competitors try to complete a 2.4 mile swim, day things took a turn for the worse. 116 mile bike ride and a marathon (26.2 miles) “Day three was a whole world of hurt,” run each day for five days straight. Jayne said. “I woke up at 5am as usual and got Jayne is a talented athlete and has into my swimming costume and dry robe. completed marathons, ironman distance I was reluctant to get into the water as I was triathlons, open water endurance swims and feeling the cold by now. an ultra-marathon, but this was a step up. “My body was utterly exhausted and I just The Kit for a Quintuple She said: “I had no idea what would happen; couldn’t get warm no matter what. The aches Enduroman whether I’d crash and burn after day one or and pains had started and my lower limbs make it until day five, but my aim was to have were beginning to show the signs of swelling.” • 2 x bikes a go and see what my body could do.” But with the support of her crew, • 2 x spare wheels Jayne did six months focussed training painkillers and plasters Jayne battled on and • 2 x garmins averaging 18 hours of training a week, got stronger as the day progressed. • 4 x spare tyres somehow managing to also work and However the decision was taken that • 8 x spare tubes complete a 20,000 word dissertation for her she would sit out days four and five having • 3 x trainers (in varying sizes) MSc. completed a triple ironman at 4am. Still a • 2 x wetsuits “I was fortunate to have some incredible remarkable achievement. • 4 x swim hats support from everyone around me: my Jayne said: “The race directors had said I • 3 x swim goggles husband Mitch, friends in my local triathlon could sleep by the lake in order to be ready for • 2 x tents club and my chain of command at work,” the 6am swim start but I knew in my heart of • Bedding Jayne said. hearts I had given it everything and whilst I • 5 x running clothes • 5 x cycling clothes “Without that, I would not have even made could have done the swim, I knew that getting • 2 x bike helmets it to the start line.” back on that bike was not an option. I would • Imodium, plasters and many, Backed by her crew: Mitch, and old friend have happily sold it for less than a fiver at that many packets of pain killers Andy Wolfe, Jayne, the only woman to enter, point and never seen it again!” • 6 bottles of Malbec headed for the New Forest to camp and take She added: “Yes I didn’t achieve the five • 24 x loo rolls on the Quintuple Enduroman. that I set out to do, but that’s not to say I won’t • Chocolate, jelly babies, pretzels, The marathon route was 24 laps of a 1.1 off in the future and no what matter what, I’ll crisps, peanut butter, porridge road mile course over tree roots, under low always be a triple ironman.” and Nutella hanging branches and around the swim lake. “The day before the race I was a bag

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Presentation to the Massachusetts Institute

E&S Fellow Duncan Kemp Design Masters students.” travelled to America to present to US Army Captain JD Caddell, an Dthe Massachusetts Institute for SDM fellow, said: “It was interesting Technology’s System Design Masters and valuable to learn about Duncan’s (SDM) course. professional experience in applying Duncan, a specialist fellow for Systems Engineering for the Defence, systems engineering, was invited to Information Services, and Rail speak to masters students about how industries. capability systems engineering has “He demonstrated how the been used to understand different methodologies and tools we are stakeholder positions, improve learning in SDM are being applied in a railroad capacity, and develop train diverse set of industries in the UK.” requirements. SDM alumnus John Helferich, a Duncan has more than 25 years of member of the SDM teaching staff and experience as a systems engineer, an MIT PhD student, added: “In the including service as Chief Systems US we tend to hear the same kinds Engineer in the MOD and Department of examples of Systems Engineering. for Transport. Learning about the UK experience, He said: “As the DE&S specialist especially the work Duncan led in DE&S Fellow Duncan Kemp fellow for Systems Engineering I the rail industry, broadened our am responsible for ensuring that perspective.” the DE&S’ approaches to systems As DE&S Fellow for Systems engineering are informed by global Engineering, Duncan has been Safety Refresh and has lead the development of aspects best practice. working with the MSP’s on developing of the new Systems Engineering Masters Apprenticeship “I was already in the US on other the new DE&S front door process and launched by the Prime Minister last year. business and was delighted to be new engineering competencies. Duncan also runs a one day systems thinking master- asked to present to the Systems He is also supporting the Maritime classes which can be booked on e-solutions.

Running the London Marathon in aid of the Royal British Legion

Lieutenant Colonel from mile for the cause – a grand total DE&S Weapons Operating of £2,620. This money will help ACentre at Abbey Wood is the Legion provide vital support taking on his first ever marathon in a to the Armed Forces community; bid to raise more than £2,500 for the including employment and housing Royal British Legion. advice, holiday breaks for those Mike Claridge is taking on the recuperating from an illness or Virgin Money London Marathon bereavement, and recovery support. on Sunday, April 24, to raise funds He said: “I’m really up for the for the organisation that supports challenge of running the Marathon Service personnel, veterans and their but it is still a very daunting families. experience; I’ve run six half He said he chose the Royal British marathons previously and never Legion because soldiers under his once have I thought to immediately command who had been injured on turn around and do it again!” operations or experienced family Charles Byrne, Director of difficulties had directly benefited Fundraising at the Legion said: from the support they offer. “We’re thrilled that Mike is Mike, who has been in the Army taking part in the London Marathon for 25 years, has been training since for the Royal British Legion. I know December and will be one of 130 how long and hard the training is runners aiming to complete the and wish him all the best with his gruelling 26.2 mile challenge in aid training in the coming months To donate to Mike’s London Marathon fund, of the Legion. and we’ll be down there on the day please visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ He is hoping to raise £100 a cheering all of our runners on.” MikeClaridge

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International Women’s Day MOTTO about parity of opportunities. We need to the MOD Lottery take a pledge to support each other and those women around us.” January 2016 winners AVM Gray talked about her experiences being the first woman in several posts, and £10,000 how much it has helped having sponsors with faith in her abilities. She recognised George Pearson (Balderstone) there is still work to do, and praised the £ 5,000 MOD as an equal opportunity employer. Debra Wakefield (DSTL) The Network also invited two guests of honour, Hilarie Owen, CEO of the Institute £ 2,000 of Leadership, and Group Captain Sara George Garden (Beith) Mackmin. £500 Hilarie tackled some common beliefs about leadership, discussing the importance Robert Neale (West Bromwich) Above: AVM Sue Gray of education and mentoring, while Richard Ireland (Glasgow) Sara talked about parity from a military £100 nder the motto “Pledge for parity”, perspective, as well as about her experience the MOD Women’s Network-South as a woman pilot in the Royal Air Force. David Stone (Lossiemouth) UWest (MWN-SW) commemorated Over 150 members of staff had the Graeme Slaymaker (Corsham) International Women’s Day. opportunity to ask questions to these three Griffith Hughes (Catterick) A series of conferences and workshops role models and to take part in a workshop Jeanette Jarvis (Devonport) were hosted in Abbey Wood by Air Vice delivered by the Defence Academy. Marshall Sue Gray, Director Combat Air and During the afternoon, Tracey Leghorn, Leighanne Donald (Glasgow) Champion for the MWN-SW. Doctoral Researcher at the University of Jessica Brydon (Abbey Wood) She said: “It is a pleasure to be at this Leicester, explored the impact women’s Margaret Currie (Clyde) event organised by the Women’s Network- psychological attachment to work, followed South West. As champion, I would by an intervention from Lee Silver and Paul Graham Musto (Hereford) encourage people to join to share their Winchcomb, from the DE&S Diversity and David Gibbs (Portsmouth) experiences, build their confidence and help Inclusion team. The day was closed by Jan Richard Coleman (Yeovilton) create a more gender inclusive society. Riches and Bernedette Nicholas, MWN “Today is not so much about equality, but Committee Co-Leaders. Shirley Brown (Corsham) Julia Flint (Bicester) Melissa Barr (Wyton) Anne Ruscoe (DSTL) Trevor Pocklington (Waddington) Graham Davidson (Whitehall) Jacqui Jayne (Aldershot) Norman Gunning (Abbey Wood) Sean Graham (Coulport) Rosalind Mitchell (Whitehall)

Above: Sue Smith and Melanie Oatley-Evans Level the playing field like Mel & Sue he Positive Action Pathway is a cross- boost of confidence. It has been an extra for your own growth. This has helped me Civil Service programme aimed to help workload in an already busy job, but it has be more confident and actually put myself Tprogression for under-represented proved an invaluable experience. It is not forward, becoming a more visible part of the groups of staff. DE&S employees Melanie just about promotion, it is about gaining organisation.” Oatley-Evans and Sue Smith both undertook assurance in your own abilities.” The programme also encourages the pathway and said it worked wonders for The selection process, very similar to a job employees to find a mentor and to have a their confidence. application, involves an online test, followed stretch project. Melanie and Sue benefited Melanie and Sue were two of the fortunate by a competence-based form which is then from a mentoring course, and they are now 170 staff selected from over 1,000 applicants returned with markings and feedback. ready to help their peers in their career for the HEO/SEO branch of the pathway, The pathway features a comprehensive progression. In addition, a mutual mentoring launched in December 2014. pack of modules and action learning sets, scheme has been introduced, aimed at Available for all ranks, it is open to women, including workshops, presentations and senior members of staff, to help them identify ethnic minorities, the disabled, and LGBT training, focused on different competency equality and diversity issues and understand employees. areas. how to solve them. Melanie said: “This programme is about Sue said: “I would definitely recommend For information email ras.candidates@ improving ourselves and building knowledge. it. You get some very enlightening feedback capita.co.uk or call 01256 383669 For me, just being chosen was an incredible on areas to improve, and it is really useful

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